WSSA surfer jumps with his board as he rides a wave during surfing session in west Gizo. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Baea.

THE Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (SIVB) is planning to bring an international media writer to feature Gizo surf competition next year.

SIVB’s Marketing Research Officer, Brenden Mautoa told Island Sun yesterday that surfing is one potential niche market to bring international visitors to the country.

“As one of our niche market, I see such event will bring more interests from outside, this will enable tourists to start planning their next trip to Solomon Islands in the next three years just to attend the surfing competition,” he said.

Mr Mautoa said this is SIVB’s support to the competition, to bring an international media writer to cover the event to allow overseas tourists to come and be part of the event.

“Although the event is mainly for local boys, this is just part of our marketing support to enable overseas tourists to the country.

“All in all this will increase visitors’ arrival for Solomon Islands,” said Mr Mautoa.

Mr Mautoa, who witnessed the three days’ surfing competition in Gizo last week, said he was impressed to see young people converge together and interact with each other during the event.

“I was also impressed with the turnout of guests from nearby resorts like the Fatboys who involve during the competition.

“They have shown their interests and come along to join the competition,” he said.